FIREFIGHTERS across Somerset are joining colleagues nationwide on a 24-hour strike in a dispute with the Government over pension reforms.

They will walk out at 7am next Wednesday, February 24 until 7am the following day.

Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service Chief Fire Officer Lee Howell said: “Fire and rescue services have contingency plans and ours will again be put into place to cover this industrial action.

“Our plans have worked well during the previous periods of strike action, but we are asking the public to help us again by taking extra care.

“We will continue to respond to 999 calls in the normal manner and do everything we can to keep the public safe.

“Take time to also think about fire safety in your home during this period - checking smoke alarms, ensuring you know what you would do if there was a fire and not making unnecessary calls to the fire and rescue service.”